Why is there always more damage to structures that are buit close to a sourse of earthquake than a structure far away?

Structures built close to an earthquake's source experience stronger ground shaking and seismic waves, leading to greater potential for damage. The intensity of the shaking decreases with distance; therefore, buildings farther away are subjected to lower energy levels. Additionally, proximity to the epicenter can result in more complex ground movement, which can exacerbate structural vulnerabilities. As a result, the cumulative effects of these factors make nearby structures more susceptible to severe damage during an earthquake.